MANILA – Passengers and pedestrians can soon expect a safer and more convenient connection between SM North EDSA and Trinoma, as the Department of Transportation (DOTr) committed to constructing a covered walkway linking the two malls.

Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. instructed the DOTr to prioritize the safety and convenience of pedestrians, especially during the holiday season.

“Nakita natin ‘yung sitwasyon sa walkway between the two malls, at grabe talaga ‘yung dinadaanan ng mga pasahero doon. Kapag umuulan, bumabaha pa sa daanan kaya grabeng pasakit talaga sa mga dumadaan, kaya palalagyan natin ng bubong ‘yang walkway,” Secretary Lopez said.

Lopez added that the walkway should eventually be connected to the Common Station, providing seamless access to MRT-3, LRT-1, and MRT-7, with the Common Station and MRT-7 expected to be operational in 2027.

The MRT-3 has already inspected the existing walkway and installed temporary cement slabs in flood-prone sections to provide safer passage for commuters during heavy rains.

“The DOTr and the MRT-3 are closely coordinating with the mall operators for the immediate construction of the covered walkway. Tututukan ng DOTr ito para malagyan ng bubong. Hindi dapat magtagal ‘yung ganitong experience ng mga pasahero,” Secretary Lopez said.